Dimitrov in 2

Dimitrov in 3

Nadal in 2

Nadal 3

The Dimitrov backhand held up really well, but one of the reasons why is because he was willing to back up 10-12 feet behind the baseline and let the ball drop more before he hit it back. Fed doesn't back up as far against Nadal which leads to shanks and leaving the ball weak in the middle of the court. If he can move that much backward and forward without cramping he matches up well with Nadal with the strength of his forehand (heaviness) and gets some cheap points on his serve. Dimitrov is also able to hit his backhand high and heavy back off that Nadal forehand with big net clearance which gives him a chance to stay in the point while keeping Nadal from attacking. Fed doesn't play that ball off his own backhand high and heavy enough to neutralize the Nadal forehand.

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I haven't yet caught the highlights, but I am equally curious to know how Dimi's 1HBH stood up to Nadal's FH attack. Some interesting points there, thanks.

Your first paragraph, spot on. I think we're singing from the same hymn sheet, but have crossed wires. The shot I refer to as (subjectively) ugly is his effective forehand that clears the net and kicks like a mule. It works very well for him, so why not use it? On occasion, yes, he moonballs, that was my point also.

The remaining paragraphs... Thank you for taking the time to eloquently write up your opinion on his level of play/tactics upon return recently. I haven't seen many of his matches, so it's good to see someone who has write how/why they think he's doing what he's doing. Your points a and b are very plausible and make sense.

The Dimitrov backhand held up really well, but one of the reasons why is because he was willing to back up 10-12 feet behind the baseline and let the ball drop more before he hit it back. Fed doesn't back up as far against Nadal which leads to shanks and leaving the ball weak in the middle of the court. If he can move that much backward and forward without cramping he matches up well with Nadal with the strength of his forehand (heaviness) and gets some cheap points on his serve. Dimitrov is also able to hit his backhand high and heavy back off that Nadal forehand with big net clearance which gives him a chance to stay in the point while keeping Nadal from attacking. Fed doesn't play that ball off his own backhand high and heavy enough to neutralize the Nadal forehand.

Zeballos/Nadal was a really awesome match but its a shame it was in the final of a 250 tourny. This one, because it was in Monte Carlo, is a slight favorite because I love the way Dimitrov plays contrasted to Rafa.

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I agree, it is the perfect contrast. Fedal is being replaced by Dimidal. Hope they meet at the slams like Fedal did.

I agree, it is the perfect contrast. Fedal is being replaced by Dimidal. Hope they meet at the slams like Fedal did.

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I sure hope so too. Dimitrov reminds me of a young/ (less finely tuned) Federer in ways. He comes up with ridiculous shots but seems more slap happy. The backhand is similar but I think Dimitrov gets a bit more topspin off that side than Roger. Some of those topspin backhands were kicking crazy high to Rafa, lol.

I sure hope so too. Dimitrov reminds me of a young/ (less finely tuned) Federer in ways. He comes up with ridiculous shots but seems more slap happy. The backhand is similar but I think Dimitrov gets a bit more topspin off that side than Roger. Some of those topspin backhands were kicking crazy high to Rafa, lol.

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LOL yeah,that was insane,never seen anyone with a one hander get that much depth and kick of the surface specially against rafa.But I don't think he has the FOREHAND that fed possessed,may be we need to wait then see.

LOL yeah,that was insane,never seen anyone with a one hander get that much depth and kick of the surface specially against rafa.But I don't think he has the FOREHAND that fed possessed,may be we need to wait then see.

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not fair critique though, prime Fed forehand is GOAT forehand, can't expect the kid to have that shot down to a T. His forehand is great though, and he can definitely rip it.